Vivian M. Lewis

Vivian M. Lewis, born June 18, 1931, to Anthony and Beatrice (Gonsalves) Fernandes in New Bedford, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Monday, November 10, 2025, at the age of 94.
A devoted and loving mother, Vivian was endlessly proud of her daughter, Heidi Lewis, who was the joy and center of her life.
Vivian was a graduate of New Bedford High School, Class of 1949. Following her graduation, she attended the Swain School of Art in New Bedford, where she nurtured her lifelong love of creativity and design. In 1952, Vivian, her parents and siblings moved to Fairhaven, Massachusetts, a town that would hold a special place in Vivian's heart for the rest of her life. Though she left Fairhaven for a time after marrying, her heart remained there. After her divorce, she returned home with her daughter, surrounded again by the love and support of her family.
Vivian began her professional career in 1955, working in the Art Department at Jordan Marsh. Later, she joined Bradlees Department Store, where through dedication and talent she rose to become Director of the Art Department. She retired from Bradlees in 1993, after a long and fulfilling career marked by artistry, leadership, and grace.
After retirement, Vivian stayed actively involved in the Fairhaven community. She led the Fairhaven Cultural Council for many years and served her town faithfully by working the polls during local elections. She also taught adult education watercolor classes at New Bedford Vocational High School for many years, encouraging her students to explore their creativity and share her love of art. She continued to paint throughout her life, working primarily in watercolors with a focus on landscapes, flowers, and house portraits - capturing the beauty she saw in the world around her. In addition to her watercolor paintings, Vivian was an accomplished scrimshaw artist whose intricate designs reflected her patience, creativity, and eye for detail.
Vivian loved to travel and shared that passion with her daughter. Together, they journeyed around the world, creating adventures and memories to last a lifetime.
Vivian loved spending time with her great-niece and nephews, teaching them how to paint and sharing with them the joy of creativity. They hold fond memories of their time with her - moments filled with laughter, learning, and love.
Vivian was predeceased by her caring sister, Janice Fernandes, and is survived by her loving daughter, Heidi Lewis; her brother, Anthony Fernandes, and his wife Crystal; her niece, Regina Kelly, and her husband Paul, and their children James, Kristina, and Michael Kelly; and her nephew, Peter Fernandes, and his wife Deborah, and their children Chris (Jordan) and Alex (Jess); along with many cousins and dear friends who held her in the highest regard and whose lives were enriched by her kindness.
Vivian's life was a testament to grace, determination, and love. Her legacy will endure through the many lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Vivian's name to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001 (www.alzfdn.com) or The Steven Korman Nutrition Center- Pie in the Sky, 420 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130 (www.mannapa.org).
Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Rachubinski & Rogers Funeral Homes
Share Online Condolences at www.rachubinskiandrogersfh.com